Declaring a Major

Deciding on a Major

The sooner you can decide on a major you would like to pursue, the better your chances are of navigating through a program without taking any unnecessary classes. There is a lot of overlap between different programs at TCC, but the only way to ensure that you don’t waste time on classes you don’t need is to work with an advisor toward a particular major. And, even if you don’t know the exact major you want to pursue, bring a list of programs you’re interested in to your meeting with your Academic Advisor.

Additionally, if you are planning to transfer to a four-year school to complete a bachelor’s degree, knowing what school you are transferring to is also important in determining which classes you should take as part of your associate degree.

Career Services staff members are eager to provide you with resources for exploring different career possibilities. They also have tools that can help you assess your own values, interests and aptitudes that will be important considerations for a fulfilling career.

In addition to the resources Career Services can provide, do not underestimate the value of real world experience. Consider getting a part-time job in a field or industry that piques your interest. If you have time, consider volunteering somewhere or shadowing a professional in that industry. If you are a Tulsa Achieves student, consider using your community service requirements as a way to explore possible careers. Nothing will give you a better feel for how you might like a career than seeing and experiencing it up close.

The Career services staff works with students who want to learn more about career options related to their major.

Choosing a Major

Any student pursuing any degree or certificate program at TCC needs to declare a major.

Degree options at TCC include Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Applied Science or a Certificate of Achievement degrees. Associate in Arts and Associate in Science degrees are designed for people who want to continue on to bachelor's-level work at a university. Associate in Applied Science degrees and Certificates of Achievement are work force development degrees. This means the programs are designed for students who intend to enter the work force directly after graduation, as opposed to transferring on to a university for a higher-level degree. You can find a complete list of degree options available at TCC in the college catalog.

Declaring or Changing a Major

Visit an Academic Advisement or Enrollment Services office at any campus. After meeting with an advisor, the student should follow the degree plan for the new major as advised.

Next Steps

Follow the curriculum plan listed in the catalog for that major. If a student does not attend TCC for any length of time, he/she should consult an advisor about potential changes to the degree plan.

Work closely with an academic advisor each semester to make certain you are enrolled in the correct courses for your degree program, especially if you are planning to transfer to a four-year college or university. Students are encouraged to begin a dialog with their intended transfer schools as early as possible. Early coordination between TCC academic advisors and advisors from selected four-year institutions can streamline the transfer process. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that he/she understands the program/admission/transfer requirements for the transfer school.

Finally, do not neglect to get input from supportive friends and family. They know you better than anyone and may be able to suggest options you had not considered.